Attractions of South America e-Book


Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I book?

2. What does the tour cost include?

3. What does the local payment cover?

4. So do I pay both tour cost + local payment?

5. Are your prices for double or single occupancy?

6. What will the weather be like where I am going?

7. Can I charge digital camera or other batteries on my trip?

8. What facilities are at the campsites?

9. How many people will be on my tour?

10. What sort of people travel with you?

11. Am I suited to group travel?

12. How and What should I pack?

13. How do we travel?

14. What facilities do your overland trucks have?

15. What is expected of me on an overland truck tour?

16. Am I expected to tip the tour leader, driver or local guides?

17. Is there an age limit?

18. Is the itinerary of my tour likely to change?

19. Can I get more detailed information about my tour?

20. Are the tours physically demanding?

21. Am I required to take Malaria tablets?

22. What vaccinations am I expected to have before travelling?

23. How much spending money should I expect to take with me?

24. Do I need travel insurance?

25. What advice can you give me in regards to photography whilst on tour?

26. Whilst on tour, what facilities are available to communicate with home?

27. What essential documents do I need to bring with me on tour?

28. How safe are my belongings and valuables whilst on tour?

29. Can you cater to my dietary and medical requirements?

30. Can you give me more information on the accommodation I am to expect whilst on tour?

31. What food and drink can I expect on tour?



Q. How do I book?
A. Easy! There are three ways you can book your tour:
Choose the tour you want to book and either:


Q. What does the tour cost include?
A. Depending on the area you visit and the type of tour you're on, most meals, entrance fees for sights, transport, accommodation, Kumuka tour leaders and drivers, local and specialist guides where required, as detailed in each itinerary.


Q. What does the local payment cover?
A. With effect from 22 May 2009 we no longer have a local payment, there is one price only which now incorporates all costs that were covered by local payment or tour fund..


Q. So do I pay both tour cost + local payment?
A.
Overland Tours: With effect from 22 May 2009 we no longer have a local payment, there is one price only which now incorporates all costs that were covered by local payment or tour fund.


Q. Are your prices for double or single occupancy?
A. Our prices are for double occupancy. You share a room with a fellow traveler. If you'd rather have a room for yourself please mail us. We'll send you the single supplement cost.


Q. What will the weather be like where I am going?
A. Our tour dossiers offer a comprehensive overview of what climate you can expect during your trip.


Q. Can I charge digital camera or other batteries on my trip?
A. On Europe, Asia, and Latin American local transport tours, these facilities will be available in your hotel rooms. Remember to bring your adapters! For overland truck tours, you are unable to charge these on the truck. However, there are facilities en-route and at various campsites where you will have this opportunity. We advise to bring spares though!


Q. What facilities are at the campsites?
A. Many campsites that we use on our overland tours have shower and washing facilities. We do recommend bringing dark coloured clothing that does not show up as much dirt, and is also quick-drying. On tours that combine camping with hotels, you will be able to either hand wash or machine wash clothes regularly. Many campsites also have a small bar or restaurant. We do occasionally free-camp where there are no facilities.


Q. How many people will be on my tour?
A. It depends on the type of tour you choose and where you go. All of our overland truck tours take a maximum of 24 people. Our local transport tours take a maximum of 16 people, and our European coach tours take a maximum of 48 passengers.


Q. What sort of people travel with Kumuka?
A. People travel with us from all walks of life and from all parts of the world. They range in age, and a large number are solo travellers along with couples and friends touring together. Some are more experienced than others, but all share the spirit of adventure, which comes from independent travelling.


Q. Am I suited to group travel?
A. We recognise that some of our travellers have never been on a group tour before. You can rest assured that our trips allow you to do your own thing within the framework of the itinerary. We do not attempt to instil a 'group ethos' and fully recognise your needs as an individual.


Q. How and What should I pack?
A. A Frameless backpack or duffel bag is the most suitable type of luggage to bring. We do not recommend suitcases or framed backpacks, as they are difficult to carry and take up valuable space on trucks and buses. Each passenger is responsible for their own bag so pack what you can carry, most airlines allow only 20Kgs in weight, Kumuka suggests between 15 – 20kg should be plenty . Remember to leave space for the inevitable souvenirs bought en route.


Q. How do we travel?
A. Again, depending on the type of tour, transport will vary according to the terrain and is part of the fun of the trip. It will range however, from local buses to trains, trucks, riverboats to canoes, minibuses to 4wd vehicles, and even the occasional ride on a camel or elephant. This variety provides excitement and interest and creates a more authentic experience.


Q. What facilities do your overland trucks have?
A. Kumuka Overland trucks are as comfortable as possible. On board you will find mostly forward facing seats, a safe for valuables, stereo and even a small library. Kumuka’s vehicles have been built to be prepared for all conditions. They are all fitted with long-range fuel and water tanks to avoid any shortages. All trucks provide tents, tables, campstools, cooking equipment such as grills or gas burners, all kitchen utensils, pots, pans, knives, chopping boards and washing bowls. Also provided is crockery and eating utensils. Some trucks are fitted with Fridges and others have cool boxes, ice is provided when available to help keep food cool and local payment covers wood and charcoal if needed.

In Europe Kumuka provides air-conditioned coaches for your comfort whilst travelling through Europe. There are also a selection of entertainment and informative videos provided for longer journeys, your tour leader will supplement these with information about the areas you are travelling through. The coach has a toilet on board for use in emergencies however due to European regulations the driver is legally required to stop every 2 hours for a break. This breaks up journeys and allows you to stretch your legs or grab a coffee. There are also coach free days where you will be able to experience local transport options or walk through the cities seeing the sites and absorbing the local culture.


Q. What is expected of me on an overland truck tour?
A. In order to make the most of your tour we ask all passengers to participate as much as possible. Duties can include, cooking, truck/camp cleaning, shopping and security watch, the tour leader will organise a roster at the beginning of the tour so that everyone does their fair share. The advantages of this are meeting local people when shopping in markets, helping the environment by keep campsites and nature spots tidy as well as meeting and getting to know all your fellow travellers. Flexibility is key, an open mind will introduce you to the local delights of the area you are travelling through as well as allow you to enjoy the tour to its fullest.


Q. Am I expected to tip the tour leader, driver or local guides?
A. Tipping is not expected however, when the local guide/restaurant has provided an enjoyable and knowledgeable service a gratuity will be gratefully accepted. If you are concerned about the amount to give discuss this with your tour leader who will offer advice. Alternatively the group can put what each feels is sufficient in a kitty to be given to the guide at the end of the day/tour. If you feel your overall experience with Kumuka has been a memorable and high quality one, the crew will appreciate a gratuity or a recommendation. Please consult your tour dossier for particular advice on the area you are travelling to.


Q. Is there an age limit?
A. We believe that we are all as young as we feel. Therefore all Kumuka trips are open to fit, healthy and adventurous individuals. You do not have to be super-fit, age is not important, it's the attitude that counts. However, on specialist tours in Africa, run by our partner Drifters an age limit of 18 - 55 is applied on all tours.


Q. Is the itinerary of my tour likely to change?
A. All itineraries are suggested only, It is unlikely that the company will have to make any changes to the clients suggested tour, but the arrangements are planned many months in advance. Occasionally changes may be made, which the company reserves the right to do at any time. Most of these changes are minor and the company will endeavour to advise the client of them at the earliest possible date. Whilst Kumuka endeavours to follow all itineraries there may be times where due to unforeseen circumstances we will have to alter our route or timing. This can be something as simple as road works or public holidays however we will do everything to ensure that all sites as per the itinerary are visited. Your tour leader is always conscious of everybody’s views, but sometimes he/she will have to make an unpopular decision and your understanding will be appreciated in these circumstances.

Q. Can I get more detailed information about my tour?
A. To supplement our brochure we produce detailed dossiers on every trip along with a pre-departure pack with information on such things as visas and meeting-up points.


Q. Are the tours physically demanding?
A. It depends on the type of trip you undertake. Some tours, such as the treks in Nepal or mountain climbing in Borneo are a little more strenuous, however the vast majority of the tours are well within the capability of any healthy individual.


Q. Am I required to take Malaria tablets?
A. Please consult with your local doctor if you are visiting a known malarial area, they will recommend a suitable prophylactic for the area you are travelling to. Please note that no prophylactic offers 100% protection so other precautions such as covering up in the evenings and using insect repellents are recommended.


Q. What vaccinations am I expected to have before travelling?
A. Each country has its own visa and health requirements. Details are contained in our tour dossiers and on our website. However we recommend you check with local embassies for visa requirements as all regulations are subject to change at late notice, and please consult with your local doctor/travel clinic for up to date information on which vaccinations are required for the area you are travelling to.

Recommendations are:
Typhoid; Hepatitis A; Tetanus; Polio; Meningitis and Rabies
Yellow fever is compulsory when travelling to East Africa; you will need a certificate of vaccination for all areas if you are travelling on from Africa after your tour.


Q. How much spending money should I expect to take with me?
A. We suggest passengers budget for between US$15-30 per day for personal expenses, including souvenirs, evenings out, snacks and alcoholic drinks etc. Be aware that some countries will be more expensive than others so spending can vary enormously. Also budget for any optional excursions you wish to do on tour and all visas that will be obtained on tour. For visas US$ cash is required, this should be a mixture of denominations and all notes should have been printed after 1999. Local payments MUST be paid in US$ cash only. On truck tours 1/3 of monies should be carried in Travellers Cheques, for security, remember you will need to provide proof of purchase and passport to change them, keep these separately and make a note of all travellers cheque numbers. The remainder of your money is best carried in US$ cash, again a mixture of denominations all notes post 1999. ATMS/Credit card facilities are limited so do not rely on these as a source of cash though they can be used for paying some optional excursion and in emergencies.


Q. Do I need travel insurance?
A. Travel Insurance is compulsory for all tours. All passengers must be insured to cover personal accident, medical expenses, cancellation, curtailment and repatriation. No passenger will be allowed on tours without suitable insurance. Please produce this at the pre-departure meeting and give details to your tour leader. If you are considering optional excursions such as Bungy jumping or white water rafting please ensure your policy covers such activities.


Q. What advice can you give me in regards to photography whilst on tour?
A. On tour everyone will be taking pictures to reproduce the memories of travelling, this can be great fun. Take care of cameras by keeping them in a sealed bag when not using them to avoid the dust and weather getting to them. Bring lots of film, as the quality found on tour cannot be guaranteed, the average amount is normally 2 x 36 exposure films per week. We also ask that photos are taken with the utmost respect, as some of the local cultures we pass through are camera shy. There are also many areas where photos/video cameras are forbidden such as border posts, airports, military installations as well as some bridges, dams, historical sites and museums. Listen to your Driver and Tour leader when they point these areas out otherwise you may lose not just the film but your camera as well. We recommend 400ASA film for low light or dense foliage such as when you are visiting the gorillas.


Q. Whilst on tour, what facilities will be available for me to communicate with home?
A. Email/Internet cafes can be found on most routes fairly regularly and are the cheapest way to communicate with family and friends. If you do not already have an email address set one up before you go, Yahoo! and Hotmail are the most popular. Some café connections can be slow and in remote areas it is still fairly expensive so ask friends to refrain from sending any emails that have pictures or music to download. This way you can make the most of your time telling everyone about your travels and still have time to fit in sightseeing. Phoning from abroad is expensive wherever you travel and often lines are bad, email bypasses a lot of these problems and lets everyone know where you are.


Q. What essential documents do I need to bring with me on tour?
A.


Q. How safe are my belongings and valuables whilst on tour?
A. All Kumuka trucks are fitted with a lockable safe, where money belts can be stored when travelling. Most hotels have safes either behind reception or in the rooms. Please note that all items placed in these safe boxes are done so at the individuals risk, Kumuka takes no responsibility for such belongings. Do not take unnecessary valuables with you and avoid wearing conspicuous jewellery. In crowded areas make sure all bags are zipped and keep your hands in your pockets to avoid pickpockets. A concealed money belt is the best way to carry belongings when travelling to meet the group or when out site seeing. Most of Kumuka’s vehicles are lockable however for extra safety, groups may be rostered on in busy towns to keep a watch on the truck these will be rotated regularly so everyone can spend time in the town.


Q. Can you cater to my dietary and medical requirements?
A. If you have any food allergies or if you are a vegetarian please inform the Kumuka office at time of booking and your tour leader at the pre-departure meeting. If you require any specific foods which are only found in certain health shops please take a supply with you as we cannot guarantee these in areas of limited supplies. Please inform Kumuka when booking your tour of any medical conditions that you may have, so that we can cater to any requirements this entails and advise our crew. If you have booked a diving trip with Kumuka, please also make sure you advise us of any condition that may affect your diving experience, such as asthma.


Q. Can you give me more information on the accommodation I am to expect whilst on tour?
A. All tents, when camping, are two man tents with plenty of space, sewn in ground sheets and mosquito netting. Kumuka uses both Dome and A-Frame tents which are easy to erect, and sturdy. Hammers and spare tent pegs are provided as well as other tools such as shovels and sand mats. Most campsites we stay in are well equipped with showers, western style toilets, clothes washing facilities, electricity and a bar area. In some sites there are rooms you can upgrade to if you wish, your tour leader will help arrange this and the extra cost will be paid by you NOT local payment. In areas where campsites are not available particularly in towns then the group will stay at a local tourist class hotel, this applies to truck tours in South America and the Middle East.

When not staying in a campsite or local hotel we enjoy a true adventure experience and ‘bush camp’. These are limited to once or twice a tour and are in areas where you can enjoy the scenery and sleep under the stars (mosquito nets recommended). We feel it allows a more authentic experience; all other nights will be in campsites/hotels as described above.

All accommodation on European Tours is in hotels. We have put a lot of thought and effort into locating the most appropriate type of accommodation for each tour. It will always be clean, comfortable and of a very high standard. All accommodation is in superior tourist class hotels. We guarantee accommodation in a twin room for every passenger on mainland European departures.


Q. What food and drink can I expect on tour?
A. The local payment will cover all camping costs, all National Park entrance fees as per itinerary and the following meals:

South America: 2 meals a day, breakfast will usually be cereals, toast, tea and coffee, fresh fruit and the occasional cooked breakfast where time permits. As we pass through towns the option of experiencing local cuisine is offered at lunchtime, on longer journeys lunch will be eaten off the truck. Dinner will be a mix of eating off the truck or at local restaurants. Drinks provided are tea, coffee, water and cordial. Soft drinks and alcohol can be purchased separately from local shops or bars.

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